interim statement
EISA Observation Mission Zanzibar Presidential, House of Representatives and Local Authority Elections 2005 (continued)

3 Recommendations

The EISA Mission encourages electoral stakeholders in Zanzibar to build on the positive experiences of these elections. At the same time, the Mission calls upon all the electoral stakeholders to conduct a thorough post electoral review which would help the country improve on the conduct of future electoral processes.

Specifically the Mission recommends the following:

  • The spirit of the Muafaka II Accord, especially the principles of dialogue, conflict resolution and consensus building, should continue to guide all parties in future elections and political processes;
  • The role of Shehas in the voter registration process be urgently reviewed and that an alternative means of identification of eligible voters be explored;
  • The role of the army during elections be urgently reviewed;
  • The alleged existence of "Janjaweed" and other militias be urgently investigated, and if substantiated, appropriate action be taken;
  • The permanent voter's register should be continuously updated to ensure that it is accurate.

4 Conclusion

Basing itself on the guidelines enshrined in the PEMMO, and compared to the previous general elections, the EISA Election Observer Mission concludes that the elections in Zanzibar were relatively free and fair. In light of several serious shortcomings identified by the Mission, electoral stakeholders in Zanzibar are invited to build on the achievements of these elections in order to improve the conduct of future elections.

Justice Anastasia Msosa, EISA Mission Leader

Mr Denis Kadima (DRC)
Ms Robyn Smith (South Africa)
Ms Judith Mulenga (Zambia)
Mr John Hampinda (Zambia)
Mr Tsebo Mats'asa (Lesotho)
Mr Samson Lembani (Malawi)
Mr Grant Masterson (South Africa)
Ms Nosipho Khumalo (South Africa)
Mr Martinho Chachiua (Mozambique)

page 1  ·  2  ·  3  ·  4  ·  5